Michelin workers contribute to Valley real estate boom

The impact of a major redistribution of workers with Michelin North America (Canada) Inc. in Nova Scotia is beginning to show in parts of the province.

Last March, employees at Michelin's Granton plant in Pictou County learned 500 positions would be cut.

As a result, nearly a third of the workforce has decided to relocate to the Annapolis Valley, making for a busy time in the Valley real estate market.

In some areas, every other street has a "for sale" sign on the lawn.

In Cambridge, N.S., Jack Lowe just sold his home. He says he got an offer three weeks after he put up the sign.

"All I know is that he's a young married man with two little children and he works at Michelin, he said.

About 160 Michelin workers from Pictou County are relocating to either the Waterville or Bridgewater plants.

Realtor Donna Conrad says she's dealt with dozens of those workers looking to move to the Valley.

I found that a fair number of people, just to make the transition be able to happen, they're renting instead of buying right away because they also have to think about selling their home and what their game plan is for how long they'll possibly be here," she said.

Another 200 Michelin employees have decided to retire.

The company says the remaining 140 workers are still weighing their options.

A Michelin spokesperson says more positions may still open up at the rubber mixing side of the Granton plant.

Conrad saysbased on the Michelin workers she's talked to, most people have made up their minds.

They're getting to the point where they know where they're going. And also, you know, does their spouse have a job is probably another factor in whether or not they come here and rent or buy a property, she said.

Those who have decided to move will start their new positions at the end of July.